2016 Subaru Crosstrek Recalls, Problems & MPG
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall and 135 owner complaints for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek. The EPA rates it 26 to 31 MPG combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
- Recalls
- 1
- Owner complaints
- 135
- Crashes / fires reported
- 4 / 3
- EPA combined
- 26–31 MPG
2016 Subaru Crosstrek recalls
Exterior LightingFeb 28, 2019 · NHTSA 19V149000+
Risk: Brake lights that do not illuminate properly will not alert other drivers that the vehicle is slowing or stopping, increasing the risk of crash.
Fix: Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake light switch, free of charge. The recall began April 15, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUE-90.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights from illuminating and also preventing keyless ignition vehicles from starting and CVT/automatic transmissions from being able to be shifted out of Park.
Recall repairs are free. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if yours still needs one.
Most reported 2016 Subaru Crosstrek problems
Owner complaints to NHTSA by system. One complaint can name more than one system.
- Electrical System38
- Unknown or Other35
- Power Train19
- Engine15
- Steering14
- Fuel/Propulsion System8
- Vehicle Speed Control6
- Structure5
2016 Subaru Crosstrek gas mileage
EPA ratings for each version (city / highway / combined).
| Version | Engine | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| XV Crosstrek Hybrid AWD | 2.0 L 4 cyl, Automatic (AV-S6) | 29 | 33 | 31 | $2,050 |
| XV Crosstrek AWD | 2.0 L 4 cyl, Automatic (AV-S6) | 26 | 33 | 29 | $2,200 |
| XV Crosstrek AWD | 2.0 L 4 cyl, Manual 5-spd | 23 | 30 | 26 | $2,450 |
Real-world mileage depends on how and where you drive. Logbay compares your actual MPG with these EPA numbers.
Questions
Does the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek, most recently for the exterior lighting (Feb 28, 2019). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2016 Subaru Crosstrek problems?
Owners filed 135 complaints with NHTSA. The most reported areas are electrical system (38), unknown or other (35), power train (19).
What gas mileage does the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek get?
The EPA rates the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek at 26 to 31 MPG combined (best version: 29 city / 33 highway).
Sources: NHTSA recalls and owner complaints (api.nhtsa.gov), EPA fuel economy (fueleconomy.gov). Updated Oct 26, 2026. Complaint counts are unverified owner reports.